What is the best all-around lens for the Nikon Z system if I only want to carry one thing? I'm leaving for Tokyo in six days and I'm stressed because I still havent picked a lens for my Z6ii. I've been looking at the 24-120mm f/4 S because everyone says it has great range but then I see people swearing by the 24-70mm f/2.8 for the better bokeh and low light.
I only have about $1100 so the f/2.8 is stretching it even used. I mostly do street stuff and landscapes so I need something versatile but not too heavy since I'm walking all day. Is the f/4 gonna be enough or will I regret it...
Honestly, for a trip like Tokyo where you're walking constantly, I'd go with the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S without thinking twice. I've used it for travel and that extra reach is a lifesaver when you cant get closer to a subject.
- The 120mm end is huge for street photography and compression in cityscapes.
- It weighs way less than the f/2.8 zooms, which really matters for long days.
- You can find it brand new for about $1,095 or used for $850-900, so it fits your budget perfectly.
- The Z6ii sensor handles high ISO well enough that f/4 is fine for night street shots. Basically, the 24-70 f/2.8 is a heavy beast and likely over your budget anyway. The 24-120mm is easily the most versatile travel lens Nikon makes right now. You wont regret having the extra zoom range for those narrow Tokyo alleys.
Stumbled on this and honestly, I've been super happy with the Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-75mm f/2.8 for travel. It fits your budget perfectly and handles those dark Tokyo alleys better than an f/4.
- weighs way less than the pro S glass
- f/2.8 is huge for night street stuff
- super sharp for the price Check the comparisons on Photography Life... it's a total sleeper lens for travel.
Quick tip before you head out! Honestly, just stick to the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S and stop stressing. I took this exact setup to Kyoto last year and it was fantastic for everything from tight alleyways to wide shrine shots. Don't worry about the f/4, the Z6ii handles high ISO so well that you wont even miss the extra stop.
- The reach is a game changer for street details.
- It balances perfectly on the Z6ii body, no front-heavy fatigue after ten hours of walking.
- Save your extra cash for a Peak Design Everyday Sling 6L to keep it secure while you move around. Just make sure you update your firmware before you fly! I had a buddy run into weird focus bugs with an older version on his Z6ii right before a trip and it was a total nightmare. Have an amazing time in Tokyo!
This is exactly what I needed to hear. Youre a lifesaver honestly.
Honestly, the gear hunt before a big trip is such a massive headache. It drives me crazy how these companies hold our wallets hostage with these insane price tags just for a bit of glass. Youre trying to enjoy a vacation but instead you feel like you need a second mortgage just to get a decent aperture, and dont even get me started on the build quality lately. It feels like everything is just getting cheaper while costing more, and it really burns me up that we have to stress this much just to capture a few good memories in Tokyo. Its such a scam that the jump between an f/4 and an f/2.8 is enough to empty your bank account, like they purposefully make the middle ground impossible to find. Just try to enjoy the city and ignore the gear talk for a second, because this constant need for the latest S-line or whatever marketing term they use is honestly ruining the fun of photography for most of us.
Finally someone says it. Ive been thinking this for a while but wasnt sure.
Noted!
Exactly what I was thinking
Man I wish I found this thread sooner. Would have saved me so much hassle.